PoliticsGeneralMonday, April 20, 2026

Investigation Initiated After Customs Detains Tamil Author's Books

TLDR

Customs initially detained 360 copies of four books by Deepachelvan Pradeepan.
Detention required State Literary Sub-Committee approval due to a "problematic situation."
Some books are released; "Bayangaravaathi" and "Cynide" remain detained.
Decision followed recommendations from Arts Council and Defence Ministry.

Sri Lanka Customs has detained 360 copies of four books authored by renowned Tamil poet and novelist Deepachelvan Pradeepan. The Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs announced the detention, citing a "problematic situation" concerning the publications. An investigation has been initiated, and the books have been referred to the Ministry of Defense for professional recommendations. A special discussion was held between the Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senavi, and the Director General of Customs, Seevali Arukkgoda, where both parties agreed to swiftly resolve the matter. Sri Lanka Customs remains responsible for further actions regarding the detained copies.

2 Updates

Update #3\u00b7 Apr 21 · 12:01 PM

The Customs Director General has decided to release some of Tamil author Deepa Chelvan Pradeepan's books while continuing to detain two specific titles, "Bayangaravaathi" and "Cynide." This decision follows investigations and considers recommendations from the Sri Lanka Arts Council, the State Literary Sub-Committee of the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, and the Ministry of Defence. The relevant import company has been informed of this partial release and continued detention.

Update #2\u00b7 Apr 21 · 3:31 AM

Customs has clarified the reason for detaining books by Tamil author Deepa Chelvan Pradeepan. The approval of the State Literary Sub-Committee is mandatory for their release. Customs Media Spokesperson Chandana Punchihewa stated that once this approval is received, the books will be released in accordance with the Customs Act. He added that detaining items, including books, due to suspicion of potential harm is a standard Customs procedure.

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